Adding value doesn't have to mean diminishing the previous value. I think it is heartening that libraries are finding ways to survive -- and flourish. It is worthy that they provide digital access to those who need and want it.

Tackling Tolstoy was an emotional, as well as a financial investment. Even if you couldn't wade through the hefty prose, that beautiful hardback edition would display prominently on your oak bookshelf, right next to your edition of Finnegans Wake, by James Joyce.

We need more and more information. We have an insatiable urge for fantasy, and its possibilities. And we want it in a new garb. Books today have turned the casualty, as a result of this. Why did libraries lose charm, when we still have our reading habits intact?

I really shouldn't tell you any more. I wouldn't want to spoil it! You'll just have to find out for yourself by reading the book. I've priced it at $2.99. Those with short attention spans will be glad to know it's a quick read.

Meet Marla. Marla was a struggling independent author who wrote mostly fiction books in the Horror genre. Then one day Marla said to herself, "If I want to make a living at writing maybe I should write more of what people want to read?" Smut!

There's a lot of buzz right now about Amazon's Matchbook Program. But only one traditional publishing house is willing to try it -- and only on a limited basis. So, where does that leave indie authors, who are wondering whether or not they should jump in?

By the end of the day I was completely inspired. I realize I could write a separate blog on each of the panel discussions, perhaps I will in the future. However, for now, this is a small glimpse at a world few beginning authors have the opportunity to see.

There is a big shift in marketing today, with brands finding that they have a large number of customers who love their products. They are willing to tell their friends and effectively advertise the brand for free.